Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Blondies combine the irresistible flavor of peanut butter with the colorful crunch of Reese’s Pieces candy for a dessert that will satisfy any sweet tooth. These chewy, rich blondies are the perfect treat for peanut butter lovers and make an excellent addition to bake sales, potlucks, or family gatherings. The beauty of these blondies lies in their simplicity—they’re easier to make than traditional brownies but pack just as much flavor punch. If you’re a fan of Reese’s Pieces Cookies, you’ll absolutely fall in love with these blondies as they deliver that same beloved peanut butter goodness in a soft, dense bar form.
Nutritional Benefits
While these blondies are certainly a treat, they do offer some nutritional benefits. Peanut butter provides protein and healthy fats, which can help keep you feeling satisfied longer than typical sugary desserts.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 17g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 24g |
Ingredients & Substitutions
| Ingredient | Role | Possible Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted | Adds richness and moisture | Coconut oil or plant-based butter |
| 1 cup brown sugar, packed | Sweetens and adds caramel notes | Coconut sugar or dark brown sugar |
| 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter | Provides signature flavor | Almond butter or sunflower seed butter |
| 2 large eggs | Binds ingredients and adds structure | Flax eggs (2 Tbsp ground flaxseed + 6 Tbsp water) |
| 1 tsp vanilla extract | Enhances flavor | Almond extract |
| 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour | Provides structure | 1:1 gluten-free flour blend |
| 1/2 tsp salt | Balances sweetness | Sea salt or pink Himalayan salt |
| 1/2 tsp baking powder | Provides slight rise | None recommended |
| 1 cup Reese’s Pieces | Adds color and crunch | Mini peanut butter cups or chocolate chips |
| 1/2 cup peanut butter chips (optional) | Adds extra peanut butter flavor | Butterscotch chips or white chocolate chips |
Equipment Needed
– 9×9 inch baking pan
– Parchment paper
– Mixing bowls (large and medium)
– Electric mixer or whisk
– Rubber spatula
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add the peanut butter and mix until well incorporated. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder.
4. Create the Batter: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be thick but smooth.
5. Add the Candy: Fold in 3/4 cup of the Reese’s Pieces and all of the peanut butter chips (if using), reserving the remaining 1/4 cup of Reese’s Pieces for topping.
6. Bake: Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Sprinkle the remaining Reese’s Pieces on top, gently pressing them into the batter.
7. Bake to Perfection: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). These Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Blondies, like the popular Reese’s Pieces Cookies, are better slightly underbaked than overbaked for that perfect chewy texture.
8. Cool: Allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares.
Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
– For Extra Gooey Blondies: Underbake by 2-3 minutes. They’ll continue to cook slightly as they cool.
– For Clean Cuts: Refrigerate the blondies for about 30 minutes before cutting with a sharp knife. Clean the knife between cuts.
– Avoid Overbaking: Blondies should be slightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center.
– Even Baking: Rotate your pan halfway through baking for even browning.
– Altitude Adjustments: At high altitudes, add an extra 2 tablespoons of flour and reduce baking powder to 1/4 teaspoon.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
– Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– Refrigerator: Keep for up to a week in an airtight container.
– Freezer: Wrap individual blondies in plastic wrap, then in foil. Place in a freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
– Make Ahead: Prepare the batter up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to add 2-3 minutes to the baking time if the batter is cold.
– Reheating: Microwave a refrigerated blondie for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked taste.
Conclusion
These Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Blondies are the ultimate peanut butter lover’s dream. Their irresistible combination of chewy texture, rich peanut butter flavor, and colorful candy pieces makes them a standout dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a special treat with your family, they’re guaranteed to disappear quickly. If you’ve enjoyed these blondies, you’ll definitely want to try making Homemade Reese’s Eggs for your next holiday celebration. The Reese’s Pieces Cookies inspiration brings that same nostalgic peanut butter and candy combination to these blondies, creating a dessert that’s both familiar and exciting.
FAQ
Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may be slightly different, but they’ll still be delicious.
How do I know when my blondies are done baking?
Look for golden brown edges with a slightly paler center. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture to your blondies. Just be aware that the batter might be slightly thicker.
What if I don’t have a 9×9 inch pan?
An 8×8 inch pan will work, but your blondies will be thicker and may need a few extra minutes of baking time. A 9×13 inch pan can work too, but reduce the baking time by about 5 minutes as the blondies will be thinner.
Can I add chocolate chips to these blondies?
Definitely! Semi-sweet, milk, or white chocolate chips would all be delicious additions. Add about 1/2 cup along with the Reese’s Pieces.
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